Stanley Cup Playoffs: Bolts By The Bay Staff Predictions

Feb 8, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; An overview of Amalie Arena where the Tampa Bay Lightning play during the third period at Amalie Arena. Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Anaheim Ducks 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The real NHL season is upon us. The 82 game regular season is over and 14 NHL teams are setting tee times today. The other 16 NHL teams are preparing for the most demanding, grueling playoffs in all professional sports.

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Over the next 8 weeks or so, the war of attrition known as the Stanley Cup Playoffs will take place. It all begins tonight with four games featuring eight teams. The next eight will play in four games tomorrow and we will be off to the races. It seems as if every series is a great match up and there are some worthy favorites and tempting underdogs. Every series should showcase some tremendous defense, solid offense and world class goaltending.

There are teams such as the Detroit Red Wings that are making their 24th consecutive playoff appearance. If you think there isn’t parity in the NHL, seven of this year’s 16 teams did NOT make the playoffs last year. New York Islanders, Washington and Ottawa in the East and Vancouver, Calgary, Nashville and Winnipeg in the Western Conference all have secured a spot in this year’s chase for the Cup after missing last year’s playoffs.

The staff here at Bolts By the Bay have made their predictions for the first round. See how our takes compare with your brackets.

Next: Tasha's Predictions for the First Round

Stanley Cup Playoffs: Bolts By The Bay Staff Predictions – Round 1

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